Travel Guides

National Archaeological Museum

This is the largest and most popular of Athens' many museums,
and is usually very crowded. Its vast collection includes treasures
unearthed from Mycenae by Heinrich Schliemann; a staggering array
of sculpture including the earliest known Greek figurines dating
from around 2000 BC; frescoes from the volcanic island of
Santorini; and so much more that it is recommended visitors make
several visits to absorb it all. One of the most popular displays
is the Mycenae gold, collected from ancient tombs, including
Agamemnon's death mask. The museum is world-class and well-arranged
and it hosts regular temporary exhibitions and educational
programmes (lectures and workshops) for those interested. There is
a gift shop and cafe for visitors to relax in if they get tired,
which is often necessary as the museum can occupy one for hours and
there is not much seating in the exhibition rooms. Photography is
allowed in the museum and the glass display cases have been
designed to make photography possible. There is a disabled entrance
around the side of the building. By all accounts this is one of the
most captivating and impressive museums in the world and it is a
must on any visit to Athens.